How Much Insurance Do I Need?

Craig Swapp, from Gregory and Swapp Law Firm explains some safe things to know about being properly insured.


You should have sufficient liability coverage to protect the general public from any damage or injuries that you may cause. Because you cannot predict the severity of a future accident, you should have enough liability coverage to adequately protect you from the liability you may incur by causing a severe accident. We recommend limits of $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident (commonly known as 100/300 coverage). You should also purchase uninsured motorist (UM) and under-insured motorist (UIM) coverage to protect you and your family from fiscally irresponsible drivers. Studies have shown that as many as one third of all driving public are uninsured. Again, we strongly recommend 100/300 coverage for UM and UIM coverage. It is never a good idea to let an insurance agent talk you into waiving UM and UIM insurance – too many drivers on the road today drive with little or no insurance, despite the financial responsibility laws. Many states also require Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which generally helps pay for medical costs, lost wages, and essential services regardless of fault.

After an accident, what should I do first?

After any accident, you should call the police to investigate the collision. You should also contact your insurance company. If you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, your insurance carrier should help with your initial out-of-pocket expenses, such as medical bills, wage loss and essential services. You may also have a claim for general damages for pain and suffering if you have sustained painful and lingering injuries. And remember that you have the right to competent, aggressive legal representation to help you deal with the insurance company and help you receive a fair settlement. Do not wait to seek legal help. Often, insurance adjusters will get you to make statements or sign documents that will prejudice your claim. At Gregory & Swapp, we can begin handling your case with just one call.

How do I know if I have a good claim?

If you were injured in a car accident that was not your fault, you probably have a good claim. With one call to Gregory & Swapp, we can set up a free no-obligation consultation in your home, office or other place convenient to you. During this consultation, we usually ask a number of questions to determine if you have a good case: Was the accident or injury the fault of another party’s negligence? Did you suffer injuries and incur related medical costs? Did your injuries result in permanent disabilities or disfigurement (such as scars)? Did the negligent party have insurance coverage at the time of the accident? Did you have insurance (including uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage) on your vehicle at the time of the accident? If you were a passenger, did the owner of the vehicle have insurance? Based on the responses to these questions and others, we can tell you early on if you have a good case.

Since its beginnings in 1957, Gregory & Swapp PLLC has been fighting to protect the rights of individuals and to help them recover financially from injury-related accidents. “One Call That’s All” means that with one simple phone call you benefit from the expertise of over 50 caring legal professionals working together to help you. Whether you’ve been injured in an accident or hurt by a prescription drug or defective product, Gregory & Swapp is dedicated to helping you receive the care you need and the compensation you deserve. Over the last 50 years, more than 55,000 individuals have been grateful they made that “one call” to our office.


For more information, you can contact Gregory & Swapp at www.gregoryswapp.com or (801)404-9000.

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